BREAKING NEWS: Texas Tech A 6-4, 320-pound Veteran Defensive Tackle Lee hunter Signs on a Dotted 4-Year Contract Deal with……

Lubbock, TX – June 10, 2025 — In a major move that could reshape the landscape of Big 12 trench warfare, Texas Tech has landed one of the most coveted veteran defensive linemen on the market. Former Auburn and UAB standout Lee Hunter, a 6-foot-4, 320-pound force of nature in the interior line, has officially signed a four-year contract to join the Red Raiders.

 

The deal, finalized early Tuesday morning, marks a major recruiting and personnel coup for head coach Joey McGuire and his staff, who have been aggressively working to bolster the team’s defensive front heading into the 2025 season. Terms of the contract have not been publicly disclosed, but sources close to the program confirm that it includes both NIL-related incentives and leadership opportunities for Hunter within the team structure.

 

A Proven Force in the Trenches

 

Hunter began his collegiate career at Auburn as a highly-touted four-star recruit out of Eight Mile, Alabama, in the class of 2021. Despite showing flashes of dominance on the Plains, his breakout came after transferring to UAB, where he quickly became one of the most disruptive interior defensive linemen in Conference USA. In the 2024 season, he racked up 45 total tackles, 9 tackles for loss, and 4 sacks — impressive numbers for an interior lineman who often faced double-teams.

 

His performance didn’t just catch the attention of scouts and analysts — it lit up the transfer portal, where multiple Power Five programs showed interest. But it was Texas Tech that ultimately won the battle.

 

Why Texas Tech?

 

According to sources, Hunter was drawn to Lubbock by a combination of the program’s rising profile, its aggressive defensive scheme under new DC Marcus Freeman, and the opportunity to play a leadership role on a team with legitimate Big 12 Championship aspirations.

 

In a brief statement released through the university, Hunter said:

 

> “I’m excited to bring my experience, energy, and work ethic to Texas Tech. I believe in what Coach McGuire is building here, and I’m ready to be a part of something special. This defense is hungry, and I’m here to feed.”

 

 

 

Coach McGuire responded with equal enthusiasm:

 

> “Lee Hunter is a game-changer. He’s got the size, strength, and motor to dominate in the Big 12, and more importantly, he’s got the mindset we’re looking for — tough, accountable, and team-first. This is a big-time addition to Red Raider football.”

 

 

 

Impact on the 2025 Season

 

Texas Tech, coming off an 8-5 season capped by a bowl win over Ole Miss, is expected to contend in the new-look Big 12. With traditional powers like Oklahoma and Texas now in the SEC, the path is clearer than ever for programs like Tech to rise to the top — and signing a player like Hunter is a definitive step in that direction.

 

He is expected to anchor the defensive line from Day 1, joining returning standouts like linebacker Bryce Ramirez and edge rusher Joseph Adedire to form what could be the best front seven Texas Tech has fielded in over a decade.

 

With Hunter clogging the middle, Texas Tech’s defense will have newfound flexibility — allowing more aggressive blitz packages and coverage schemes in the back end. His presence will also help free up edge defenders and allow linebackers to flow more freely to the ball.

 

NIL and Leadership Role

 

Hunter’s signing comes as part of a broader NIL-supported initiative from the Red Raider collective, which has become one of the more well-organized and well-funded in the Big 12. While the exact financials were not disclosed, insiders say the deal is competitive with other top-tier offers around the nation.

 

In addition to his on-field responsibilities, Hunter will also serve as a mentor for younger players on the roster. Coaches have indicated he will have a say in defensive leadership meetings and will play a role in recruiting efforts.

 

Looking Ahead

 

With fall camp just weeks away, excitement in Lubbock is already surging. Season ticket sales are reportedly up, and expectations are higher than they’ve been in years. With Hunter anchoring the defense, the Red Raiders may finally have the muscle to go toe-to-toe with the likes of Kansas State, Utah, and Arizona in the new Big 12 order.

 

This is more than just a signing — it’s a statement. Texas Tech is serious about competing at the highest level, and the addition of Lee Hunter sends a loud and clear message: the Red Raiders are ready to wreak havoc in 2025.